Heathrow Airport has hailed the news that the UK Government has approved its plans for a third runway and says it is the “only option”.

A spokesperson from the UK hub, which is the busiest port for exports and handled more than 1.5 million tonnes of cargo a year says: “We welcome the news that Heathrow is the Government’s preferred site for a new runway and look forward to hearing the full details later from the Transport Secretary.

“Expansion of Heathrow is the only option that will connect all the UK to global growth, helping to build a stronger and fairer economy.

“We await the full details, but Heathrow stands ready to work with Government, businesses, airlines and our local communities to deliver an airport that is fair, affordable and secures the benefits of expansion for the whole of the UK.”